Hello darlings! Welcome back to Pink Tutu Travels, where every month I hop on my trusty steed, Magic Meg, and zoom through the shimmering tapestry of time, always on the lookout for a fabulous ballet adventure. This month, we're skipping back to a bustling August in 1917, a time of great upheaval and change in the world, but also a time bursting with creative energy, especially in the wonderful world of ballet!
My pink tutu and I were twirling our way through a busy London street, dodging the ubiquitous trams and soaking in the sights and sounds. Oh, the excitement of those Edwardian era fashions, the bold hats, the long skirts flowing like graceful ribbons in the summer breeze. And as always, the scent of a good old English cup of tea was in the air!
But what about ballet, you ask? Well, darlings, London was in the throes of a ballet craze! This month in particular saw two spectacular productions, both of which filled me with pure joy. Firstly, the legendary Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova, graced the stage of the Royal Opera House with her breathtaking artistry. Imagine the exquisite lines, the fluid grace, the sheer ethereal quality of her performance! It was enough to send any ballet enthusiast into raptures!
The second production was a truly special one. It was Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, featuring the mesmerizing Vaslav Nijinsky, whose innovative movements and dramatic expressiveness captivated the entire audience. Just imagining the thunderous applause for his leaps and spins sent shivers down my spine! I could practically feel the passion, the drama, the magic of that moment!
These were two very different interpretations of ballet, but they both shared an undeniable elegance and artistic merit that left me completely captivated. And of course, the costumes! Absolutely divine, with shimmering sequins and opulent embellishments - you wouldn't catch me in anything less, wouldn't you?
Speaking of costumes, I have a little secret for you. The Edwardian period was a true delight for tutu enthusiasts! Just think of the beautifully flowing chiffon, the graceful layers of tulle, the exquisite ribbons and bows! It's a period brimming with romantic elegance, and ballet reflects that sentiment beautifully.
So, how did I, a 21st century girl in her pink tutu, experience these momentous performances from almost a century ago? Well, darlings, that’s where my magic horse, Meg, comes in. Imagine a magnificent Shire horse, bathed in a soft, pink glow, with a mane of purest white and hooves that shimmer like gold - truly a horse worthy of any fairytale! She can transport me anywhere in time, so long as I remember to feed her her special sugar cubes sprinkled with sparkly dust.
I arrived in London ready to soak up the magic. The excitement, the energy, the creativity in the air - you just had to be there! The London Opera House was a spectacle in itself, with its grandeur and opulence, but it was the dancing that truly made my heart sing.
While in London, I couldn’t resist a spot of shopping in the grand department stores. I picked up a pair of stylish, wide-brimmed hats and a delicate lace scarf for myself. Then, of course, I made sure to browse the ballet shops. Imagine the beautifully embroidered tutus, the exquisite ballet slippers, the perfect leotards – it was enough to make any dancer's head spin!
My rucksack is overflowing with treasures from my journey – programmes, pamphlets, and even a small, delicate feather that once graced the costume of one of the Ballets Russes dancers!
Now, to give you a glimpse of what's brewing on the international ballet scene in August 1917, here's a peek at the news from the world:
- The world is embroiled in World War One, yet despite the global turmoil, the artistic spirit remained vibrant and hopeful, as exemplified by the dazzling performances taking place around the world.
- The dance world, as usual, seemed a sanctuary for elegance and beauty, a safe haven where anxieties could be forgotten, even if just for a moment.
I've discovered an abundance of ballet gems on my travels - from dazzling dancers and their extraordinary tales to stunning costumes that truly took my breath away! I’m certain these will inspire you, my fellow tutu-lovers, as you dance through life with your own spark and elegance!
Until next time, remember, darlings, a pink tutu makes the world a more beautiful place! ✨ 💖
See you all soon!
XOXO
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
